Shockmaw Dragon MTG Card
| Mana cost | |
| Converted mana cost | 6 |
| Rarity | Uncommon |
| Type | Creature — Dragon |
| Abilities | Flying |
| Released | 2015-01-23 |
| Set symbol | |
| Set name | Fate Reforged |
| Set code | FRF |
| Power | 4 |
| Toughness | 4 |
| Number | 114 |
| Frame | 2015 |
| Layout | Normal |
| Border | Black |
| Illustred by | Alejandro Mirabal |
Text of card
Flying Whenever Shockmaw Dragon deals combat damage to a player, it deals 1 damage to each creature that player controls.
Dragons of the Kolaghan brood are always on the move. They are the driving force behind the Mardu's nomadic way of life.
Cards like Shockmaw Dragon
Shockmaw Dragon brings a unique blend of aerial prowess and board impact to the Magic: The Gathering dragon roster. With the ability to dish out damage to multiple creatures upon attacking, it’s an echo of the fearsome abilities found in dragons like Thunderbreak Regent. While Thunderbreak Regent dishes out damage when targeted, Shockmaw Dragon’s impact is felt more broadly with each swing. Similarly, there’s Scourge of Valkas, offering damage per dragon entering the battlefield, but Shockmaw Dragon doesn’t demand a dragon-heavy deck to realize its potential.
Then we have Stormbreath Dragon, sharing the flying feature but with protection from white to safeguard against certain removals. Shockmaw’s broad attacking trigger, however, doesn’t hinge on protection status, making it useful in more varied game scenarios. Even Dragonlord Atarka comes to mind, though its entry effect targets creatures or planeswalkers directly, differing from Shockmaw’s repeatable damage output in combat.
In essence, Shockmaw Dragon holds its own within the array of multi-effect dragons. It shines by providing consistent, conditional board wipes against token decks or strategies reliant on numerous small creatures. This solidifies its role as a potential game-changer in MTG decks designed to capitalize on combat phases and recurring damage.
Cards similar to Shockmaw Dragon by color, type and mana cost
Card Pros
Card Advantage: Shockmaw Dragon provides a dynamic edge in the battlefield, as each time it becomes blocked, it deals 1 damage to each creature your opponents control. This strategic ability can thin out your opponent’s forces while maintaining your troop strength, promoting superior card advantage through indirect board wipes.
Resource Acceleration: While the Shockmaw Dragon itself doesn’t directly accelerate resources, it can evolve into an essential piece in strategies built around damage-based effects and dragon synergies. Integrating this dragon into your deck can accelerate your game plan by triggering resourceful interactions within a well-orchestrated dragon deck architecture.
Instant Speed: Although Shockmaw Dragon is not an instant, its impact at lightning speed cannot be overlooked. With flying and haste, it swoops onto the battlefield ready to strike, offering immediate pressure. Its swift entry into play can catch opponents off guard, forcing them to adjust their strategy at a moment’s notice — a valuable trait in the fast-paced world of MTG.
Card Cons
Discard Requirement: One of the hurdles that players face with the Shockmaw Dragon is the necessity to discard cards, specifically when activating certain abilities. This can put players at a disadvantage, especially when their hand is already stretched thin and they’re struggling to maintain card advantage on the battlefield.
Specific Mana Cost: The casting cost of Shockmaw Dragon requires a specific mana combination that may not always align with a player’s available mana pool, particularly in multicolored decks that may not consistently produce the red mana necessary to summon this creature efficiently.
Comparatively High Mana Cost: When evaluating the cost-benefit ratio of summoning Shockmaw Dragon, it becomes apparent that the required investment can be steep. There are alternative creatures and spells in the game that may offer a better return on investment, considering the amount of mana resources spent to bring Shockmaw Dragon into play.
Reasons to Include Shockmaw Dragon in Your Collection
Versatility: Shockmaw Dragon offers a dynamic gameplay experience as it can thrive in various deck builds. Its ability to deal damage to multiple creatures upon attacking allows it to serve as both an aggressive threat and a board control tool.
Combo Potential: This fiery drake shines when paired with cards that capitalize on dealing damage or dragon synergy. Its damage-dealing ability on attack can be harnessed to activate numerous combos and interactions within a match.
Meta-Relevance: In an environment filled with creature-based strategies, Shockmaw Dragon’s impact is heightened. Its relevance to the current meta stands out as it can clear the board of smaller threats, making room for your offensive while simultaneously safeguarding your life total.
How to beat
Shockmaw Dragon presents a unique challenge on the battlefield with its ability to deal damage to each creature your opponent controls whenever it attacks. Overcoming this fearsome dragon demands strategic planning and the right card choices. Including instant-speed removal spells in your deck, like Murder or Path to Exile, allows you to swiftly eliminate the threat before it wreaks havoc. Board wipes such as Wrath of God can also clear the field of dragons in general, ensuring a return to a level playing field.
Ensnaring the dragon in Pacifism or a similar enchantment restricts its power, nullifying the risk without having to permanently deal with the creature. Alternatively, utilizing counterspells like Cancel when your opponent casts Shockmaw Dragon can prevent it from ever taking flight. It’s essential to anticipate the play or have a response ready, as the cost of underestimating Shockmaw Dragon’s impact could be devastating to your creatures and your chances of victory.
Whether you counteract it before or after it hits the board, the key to defeating Shockmaw Dragon lies in prompt and decisive actions. Keep your removal or counterspells handy, and this aerial behemoth will be grounded in no time, turning the tide of the game in your favor.
Where to buy
If you're looking to purchase Shockmaw Dragon MTG card by a specific set like Fate Reforged, there are several reliable options to consider. One of the primary sources is your local game store, where you can often find booster packs, individual cards, and preconstructed decks from current and some past sets. They often offer the added benefit of a community where you can trade with other players.
For a broader inventory, particularly of older sets, online marketplaces like TCGPlayer, Card Kingdom and Card Market offer extensive selections and allow you to search for cards from specific sets. Larger e-commerce platforms like eBay and Amazon also have listings from various sellers, which can be a good place to look for sealed product and rare finds.
Additionally, Magic’s official site often has a store locator and retailer lists for finding Wizards of the Coast licensed products. Remember to check for authenticity and the condition of the cards when purchasing, especially from individual sellers on larger marketplaces.
Below is a list of some store websites where you can buy the Shockmaw Dragon and other MTG cards:
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- eBay
- Card Kingdom
- Card Market
- Star City Games
- CoolStuffInc
- MTG Mint Card
- Hareruya
- Troll and Toad
- ABU Games
- Card Hoarder Magic Online
- MTGO Traders Magic Online
See MTG Products
Legalities
Magic the Gathering formats where Shockmaw Dragon has restrictions
| Format | Legality |
|---|---|
| Commander | Legal |
| Legacy | Legal |
| Paupercommander | Restricted |
| Modern | Legal |
| Oathbreaker | Legal |
| Vintage | Legal |
| Duel | Legal |
| Pioneer | Legal |